Note: This site is for reviewing legacy plan of work data from 2007-2011. If you are looking for the current plan of work interface, visit pow.nmsu.edu.
Applied Reproductive Management for Cattle (Sierra County)
This county-level plan is managed by . Print this page to create a Plan of Work signature page.
Plan Goal
Increase estrus rates during the artificial insemination of beef cattle through the implementation of research-based knowledge on conception rate success and the utilization of established synchronization protocols.
Situation Statement
Nearly 100% of all exhibition quality animals bred in county are developed by producers utilizing heat synchronization protocols and artificial insemination techniques. Producers are currently experiencing sub-adequate conception rates (less than 50% on first heats) due mainly to poor quality or even silent heats. This situation limits the profitability of enterprises by: increasing labor and input costs, decreasing per animal productivity, decreasing marketability of later born calves, and deteriorating calving seasons. Very little work has been done in the past to bring the most up-to-date knowledge in artificial insemination practices to producers. Through the implementation of producer practice reviews and stronger heat sync protocols Sierra County’s show stock producers should be able to increase conception rates on the first heat to 75% or greater.
Target Audience and Actions
The county agent will review current producer practices associated with AI success rates including but not limited to: heat synchronization, semen selection and handling, nutritional condition, cattle handling, heat detection, and timing insemination. Any and willing producers will undergo a conversational review of their techniques. The agent will provide recommendation and if necessary aide in implementation of any new practices.
Short-Term Objectives
Develop a strong relationship and complete conversational reviews with 50% of all show stock producers in Sierra County the First year of program and 100% of producers by year two.
Medium-Term Objectives
Increase reproductive performance of beef cattle operations utilizing artificial insemination and estrus synchronization practice by 25% as measured by first cycle conception rates for all producers willing to work with cooperative extension service.
Long-Term Objectives
Through increasing the short term viability of show stock producing enterprises we in turn allow for sustainable operations that will continue to provide economic stability and financial support for Sierra County Youth.
Evaluation Plan
Conception Rates county wide should have a positive correlation with the percentages of producers who have developed a strong working relationship with the county agent and have completed conversational reviews of their practices.